The woodpecker is protected by the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, but officials decided not to pursue federal charges.

Florida Fish and Wildlife spokeswoman Joy Hill said the agency opened an investigation after receiving an anonymous tip about the shooting. A state official notified Miller about the charge and he turned himself in.

The Ocala Star-Banner reported Miller apologized for killing the bird. He said his mother gave him the trees and he had spent a lot of money taking care of them.

As top GOP presidential candidates arrived at a hotel here to court the influential donors of the Koch network, Charles Koch called on retreat attendees to unite with him in a campaign against "corporate welfare" and "irresponsible spending" by both ...